Best Wi-Fi Meat Thermometers (We Review the 5 Top Models)


Some people prefer simple thermometers and avoid the high-tech accessories, but if you’re a gadget lover and embrace technology, you should consider a Wi-Fi thermometer. Wi-Fi thermometers merge technology with barbecue. These high-tech thermometers allow you to monitor your smoker, and meat from anywhere in the world via a smartphone app. Many of these thermometers use cloud-based technology, so you can store and graph your cooks for future reference.

Wi-Fi thermometers have leapfrogged Bluetooth thermometers, which seem to frustrate people more than anything. However, Wi-Fi thermometers are more expensive than other duel-probe thermometers, but there are some affordable models. Here are some of the most popular Wi-Fi thermometers:

  • GrillEye Pro Plus
  • Signals BBQ Alarm Thermometer
  • FireBoard 2
  • Tappeque Wi-Fi
  • Inkbird IBBQ-4T Wi-Fi

1.GrillEye PRO+

The GrillEye Pro Plus is the best-valued Wi-Fi thermometer on the market. An upgrade from the Bluetooth version, the GrillEye pro is a Smart Smoking and Grilling device that enables you to monitor up to 8 different temperatures simultaneously. For a quality Wi-Fi thermometer for under $100, you can’t really complain. See the latest price here.

Features

  • 2 Probes  (with a capacity for 8) 
  • The only FDA approved Space Grade Aluminium Probes
  • Mini USB cable
  • 2 probe clips that attach to the grill for ambient temperature readings. 
  • Compatible with IOS and Android 
  • 360° Viewing Angle
  • European Made
  • USB rechargeable battery
  • Magnetic mount
  • Over-the-air system updates

Probes 

High quality probes are an important feature in meat thermometers. The GrillEye probes are constructed using space grade aluminium and stainless-steel. The GrillEye comes with two probes but can run up to eight at one time. You can use the pre-set temperatures or customize your own.

I like to scroll through the reviews on Amazon or the product websites and find customers who test the thermometer accuracy. Several customers performed the standard ice water and boiling water test on the GrillEye and found the probes were accurate to within a degree. 

App and Cloud

The GrillEye PRO+ uses cloud technology that allows you to monitor your smoking session from anywhere in the world! When the GrillEye was first released, there were some software bugs, but they have since resolved with the latest version. GrillEye has redesigned the App form the original, and it now includes Apple Watch and IOS and Android. 

App installation in simple. Once the App is installed and the Bluetooth is activated, all you need to do is connect to the Wi-Fi. The App controls are simple to read, and the graph data is excellent.

Base Unit and Display

The base unit is well designed, and the display is fantastic. There are magnets on the back of the unit so you can attach the thermometer to the side of a grill or smoker. The large display is easy to read and is designed to be readable in direct sunlight or at night.

2. Thermoworks Signals

For years ThermoWorks have led the competition in food thermometers and have had enormous success with several products. Signals is ThermoWorks first Wi-Fi/ cloud-based thermometer and it has to be in the conversation for “Best Wi-Fi Thermometer”. As with any ThermoWorks product, you know you’re going to get quality probes, cutting edge technology and exceptional customer service. ThermoWorks thermometers aren’t available on Amazon, but sell their thermometers on the ThermoWorks website.

Features

  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • 4 channels
  • Pro-Series commercial-grade probes
  • ThermoWorks App
  • Splash-proof
  • Magnets on back for storage
  • Back-lit dashboard-style display
  • Rechargeable battery and power adapter
  • Made in the U.S. A by ThermoWorks

Wi-Fi or Manual

A standout feature of Signals is the ability to bypass the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity and use it as a simple stand-alone thermometer with push-buttons. This is a great option in case your Wi-Fi goes down or if you aren’t a fan of high-tech gadgets and want to revert back to a traditional wireless thermometer.

Probes

Signals has four channels, which simply means it has four probes. Each probe can measure four different temperatures. Typically one probe is used to measure the “pit” or ambient temperature of the smoker, and the remaining probes can measure the internal temperature of different meats. Signals allows you to customize each channel with a unique name such as: “RIBS”, “BRISKET” or “PIT”. 

For long form cooking methods like smoking and roasting, you need a thermometer with at least two probes: one to measure the ambient temperature and the other to track the internal meat temperature. You can get away with a single probe thermometer if you use an electric/gas smoker or a pellet grill, but charcoal and offset smokers need a minimum of two probes, otherwise you’re operating blind.

ThermoWorks designed Signals for competition barbecue teams and meat smoking enthusiasts, which is why Signals comes with four probe/channels. I can see how catering businesses or competition smokers might need multiple probes, but any more than three probes could be considered overkill for the average person. Also, once you go over two probes, the price escalates. 

Probe Quality

As with all their thermometers, ThermoWorks uses commercial-grade Pro-Series temperature probes. Pro-Series probes are high-quality, fast, accurate and have a wide temperature range. Compared to other thermometers on the market, the Pro-Series probes have a longer life. 

The Base Unit

The Signals unit is sturdy, and like all ThermoWorks products, is built to industrial standards. Signals comes with a weather-resistant cover and magnets on the back of the unit for storage. There are six buttons to control the back light, alarm volume and set alarms. Another cool feature is the colored silicone probe bands which enable the user to colour-code the probes. 

Display

Signals has a large, LCD back-lit display that is clean and easy to understand. The screen is split into four sections, one for each probe channel. The channel names are programmable, so you can name each probe to whatever you want. The display shows high and low temps on each section, a battery level icon and users have the option of switching between Fahrenheit or Celsius. Another handy feature is the ability to save session settings for your next cook. 

Battery and Power

Signals is powered by a rechargeable battery that provides 16 hours of use. The thermometers also comes with a 12V USB power adapter. 

ThermoWorks App

In 2020, ThermoWorks released the second version of the BBQ App. The original App had some glitches, but the updated App was tested on a large Beta group until the feedback is mostly positive. 

The ThermoWorks App has an intuitive interface and gives the user access to temperature data, graphs and stores everything on the ThermoWorks Cloud. The App gives the user flexibility to monitor their meat from anywhere via the Cloud and receive real-time alerts. 

The App connects you to the ThermoWorks Cloud, which contains your temperature graphs from previous cooks. This information is handy, especially if you’re new to low-and-slow cooking. 

The ThermoWorks App is easily downloadable for IOS and Android devices. Once you have installed the App, you will be prompted to create an account, add your name, email and create a password. Simply turn on your Bluetooth and the thermometer will pair with your device. 

For detailed information, simply drag your finger across the graph to highlight temperature data. The App can also color-code the windows to match the different coloured probes There is also an option to take notes and journal each cook for future reference. 

Text and Email Alerts

You can set up you thermometer to send SMS or email alerts for any important temperature changes. This feature gives you peace of mind and sets you free to do other things without having to stress too much.

Setup

Setup is as simple as installing the ThermoWorks App on your phone or tablet and pairing the unit with Bluetooth. Click the + device button and choose your device from the options. Once the Bluetooth is installed, enter your Wi-Fi password to enable cloud connection. Follow the prompts and setup an account. 

Price

The Signals is a high-end thermometer and is priced in the $230 to $250 price range. The price will turn most people away, but if you are after a quality high-tech alarm, the Signals is a great choice. See the latest price here.

3. FireBoard 2

When FireBoard first launched the original FBX11 Smart Thermometer, it was a game-changer and introduced a new level of convenience for meat smoking and barbecue enthusiasts. It included features such as internet connectivity, the ability to sync data with smartphones, and a way to monitor your device and meats through the FireBoard App. 

FireBoard 2 is a six channel Wi-Fi/Bluetooth thermometer with an integrated thermostatic controller. This thermometer has almost everything: solid probes, an intuitive app and all-round solid construction. Fireboard can only be purchased directly from the FireBoard website. See the latest price here.

Features

  • 6 Probes (Channels)
  • Wi-Fi and BlueTooth
  • FireBoard App and Cloud
  • Water Resistant 
  • Large 256×128 LCD display
  • Back-lit Screen
  • Multi-Rotational Display
  • Lithium-ion battery with 30 hours charge
  • Supports Google Assistant or Alexa
  • USB Type-C charging cable and power brick.
  • Drive Fan Control Option

Display

FireBoard 2 is the evolution of the original FireBoard and in this case, the sequel is definitely better than the original. FireBoard 2 has a 256×128 LCD display, and is back-lit for easy viewing. The display rotates which allows you to view data upside down, which is a massive improvement over the first-generation FireBoard. Fireboard 2 is a compact unit, around the same size as your palm. It has three buttons on the side that navigate between the different displays and allows you to monitor graphs while operating.

Weather Proof

FireBoard 2 comes in a weather-resistant casing, so it will survive the occasional splash and light rain. This is another big improvement over the first-generation FireBoard. The LCD screen is protected by a plastic shield and the thermometer surface has a rubber coating.

Battery

FireBoard 2 is powered by an internal lithium-ion battery that can power FireBoard 2 for 30 hours. If you are using a fan for controlling the temperature, you can also power this product with its external charger. 

App and Cloud

The FireBoard 2 App is simple to use. The main display allows you to view the current temperature on each probe that is connected. You can navigate between the channels and the temperature graphs at FireBoard.io or by using the App. FireBoard 2 can sync the data from your thermometer to cloud storage. 

Setup

FireBoard 2 is simple and easy to set up. Once the App is installed on your tablet or smartphone, turn on the Bluetooth on your device and connect with the FireBoard 2. You will be prompted to create an account via the App and then set up a Wi-Fi connection between your 2.4GHz router (not supporting 5GHz router) and your FireBoard 2.Once the connection is established, the  thermometer will remember your Wi-Fi connection and reconnect the next time you turn it on. After the Wi-Fi setup, all you have to do is set up your profile via a web browser or the app to the FireBoard cloud and the setup is complete and you can now monitor and control your cooking session via a web browser or the app. 

Navigation

The display on FireBoard 2 gives you all the information you need about your cooking session with four different temperature and time viewing choices available. Each probe can be viewed in its own window or all the temperatures can be displayed on the one screen. You can make cooking temperature profiles such as “Beef”, “Ribs” or “Pit”. 

Alarms

You can set up alarms to alert you if the meat is exceeding the desired internal temperature. Up up to six different alarms can be set, one for each probe. The alarms trigger a notification via the app, text message, or email. 

Alexa and Bluetooth

If you have Google Assistant or Alexa, the FireBoard will also support both interfaces. If you don’t have a Wi-Fi connection, you can control the FireBoard 2 via Bluetooth, but you have to stay in Bluetooth range. 

FireBoard Extras

FireBoard 2 has three versions available: FireBoard2 (FBX2)–the basic product without the integrated thermostatic controller, FireBoard2 Drive (FBX2D)–the Drive counterpart has the built-in controller, and there is 3 channel version that accepts thermocouple probes. 

The Drive accessory from the original FireBoard can be plug even into the basic product (the one without Drive built-in), this can provide you full thermostatic control function at a considerably lower price.

4. Tappeque Wi-Fi Thermometer

Like most Bluetooth meat thermometers, the original Tappeque Bluetooth thermometer received a lot of negative feedback on Amazon and meat smoking forums. Bluetooth thermometers have been a total headache for many users, but thankfully Wi-Fi thermometers are taking over.

Because of the negativity surrounding the original Tappeque, I was reluctant to look into the newer Wi-Fi Tappeque. To my surprise, the Wi-Fi Tappeque has mostly positive feedback and received a Gold Medal on the authority barbecue website, Amazing Ribs. That’s when it got my attention.  

The Tappeque Wi-Fi is a four probe wireless meat thermometer that is designed for low-and-slow cooking methods such as smoking and roasting. The Tappeque can either be controlled by an App or by pressing the buttons on the base unit. Tappeque isn’t available on Amazon but is available from the Tappeque website. See the latest price here.

Features

  • 2, 4 or 6 x 6” Probes
  • Wi-Fi Enabled
  • Cloud Connected
  • Tappeque App
  • Charger
  • Stylus 
  • Large Digit Display
  • Temperature alerts on your devices.
  • 180ft Offline Mode
  • Built in Li-Ion battery with 12-hour life. 
  • Plug into the wall for unlimited power.
  • Water Resistant
  • Temperature Range: 0F–572F (300C)
  • Backlight 
  • IOS and Android

Range

The beauty of Wi-Fi thermometers there is no such thing as range because they work from anywhere in the world. Along as you have Wi-Fi, the Tappecue will monitor the temperatures via the Cloud. 

Probes

The most important feature of a thermometer is the accuracy. According to the top reviewers on Amazon, the Tappecue passed the accuracy tests and was equal to the gold standard thermometer, the Thermapen. The Tappecue either measured equal to the Thermapen or within +/- 2°. 

The probes are heavy, which is important. If you smoke meat regularly, you would know how easily probes can break. Even the high-quality probes from ThermoWorks have a short lifespan if you are smoking meat regularly. Tappeque announced its new probes have duel sensors per probe; one sensor measures the meat while the other sensor measures the ambient temperature of the cook chamber. 

Color-Coded Probes

There is the option to buy different color-coded probes, which helps you keep track of the different meats. Color-coded probes seem to be the standard practice in the multi-probe thermometers, and the Tappeque is no different. Color-coding makes life easier and the App corresponds by displaying the colors on the display. However, the color-coded function is only accessible via the App. When using the stand-alone unit, it displays only basic functions. 

Setup

The original Tappeque wasn’t easy to operate, but the new version is relatively simple. Once the Tappeque is paired to your home Wi-Fi, all you have to do is follow the prompts and you’re ready to go. The Tappeque has pre-programmed temperature alarms or you have the option of customizing you own. As with most thermometers, it can display temperatures in F or °C. The setup walks you through a few screens where you are given the option to select Meat. The last screen gives you an option to alter the temperature alarm. There is a “quick temperature view” which shows all the temperatures from all four probes. 

Battery

The Tappeque has a built-in Li-Ion battery that lasts for 12-hours, which isn’t great, but you can plug the unit into the AC power and run unlimited. The Tappeque is well built, and the unit feels solid. 

Customer Service

Tappeque provides excellent customer service, and according to Amazon reviews, the company promptly responds to email enquiries and complaints. 

The Cloud

Tappecue has a paid subscription called SessionBook which allows you to store session data on the Tappeque servers. I already have too many monthly subscriptions, so I personally wouldn’t be signing up to a thermometer subscription.

5. Inkbird WiFi – IBBQ-4T

The Inkbird has entered the Wi-Fi thermometer game with the IBBQ-4T to compete with the other high-tech thermometers on the market, but for a fraction of the cost. The Inkbird Wi-Fi thermometer is an upgrade of the popular IBT-4XS Bluetooth thermometer and is designed for long-form cooking methods such as smoking and roasting. See the latest price here.

Features

  • Wi-Fi Connection
  • Inkbird Pro APP
  • A Hugh 26-hour battery life
  • Rechargeable Lithium Battery 
  • Temperature Graph & Calibration
  • Magnetic
  • Temperature Accuracy: ±1℃/±1.8℉
  • Dimensions of LCD Display: 53mmx35mm
  • Waterproof
  • 4 x Meat Probes
  • 2 x Probe Clips 
  • 1 x USB Cable
  • 1 x English Manual

Probes

The Inkbird takes four probes, which is enough to monitor the pit and three different meats. Two probes are the minimum you need for smoking meat: one to measure the temperature of the cook chamber and another probe to measure one piece of meat.

When dealing with multiple probes, color coding is a helpful feature. The App gives the user the option of matching the colors to avoid confusion. ThermoWorks also has this feature, however the Fireboard 1 doesn’t. 

Testing and Recalibrating

According to Amazon customer reviews, the Inkbird thermometers are accurate out of the box and shouldn’t need alterations. Occasionally a new thermometer will be off a degree or two, which is enough to make meat unsafe to eat. It’s always a good idea to do a quick test with an ice bath and boiling water. If the thermometer is showing an inaccurate reading, it can easily be recalibrated via the App or a button. ThermoWorks thermometers cannot be recalibrated, they have to be returned to the factory, but you can adjust the Inkbird at home if needed. 

Base Unit and Display

The Inkbird base unit is solid but smaller than its competitors. There is a magnet on the back of the unit so it can be attached to the side of a cooker or can be stored on the refrigerator. The Inkbird is easy to read in all environments – day or night. The display has an orange back light which makes it readable in direct sunlight or in the dark. 

Waterproof

The Inkbird has set itself apart from the competition by making the IBBQ-4T waterproof. The Inkbird has iPx3 rain proofing, which is an important feature when working outside.

Wi-Fi and App

When pairing the Inkbird thermometer to your Wi-Fi network, make sure the Inkbird is on a 2.4gHz WIFI network because it won’t work on a 5G network. The App is available on Apple and Android devices. The Inkbird App isn’t as in depth as the competitors apps, but is simple and easy to understand. The Inkbird App allows the user to view graphs of current cooks, customize alarms and names and take notes for future reference. One criticism of the Inkbird App is the inability to remember customized names and temperatures from previous cooks. 

Battery

When it comes to battery life and charging, the Inkbird wins over its competitors. The other highly rated Wi-Fi thermometers take a long time to charge and only last half the time. The Inkbird is equipped with a rechargeable lithium battery that can last up to 26-hours. The charger comes with a USB cable and only takes 2-hours to charge. The App display shows a battery percentage remaining and the base unit icon gives an estimate. 

Price

The InkBird is great value for a thermometer with such advanced capabilities. ThermoWorks and Fireboard sell similar Wi-Fi thermometers for double the price. The Inkbird probes are not to the same high standard of a ThermoWorks probe, but for only $125, you can’t complain. Check the latest price here.

Meat Thermometers – Your Most Important Tool

The Beginner’s Guide To Meat Thermometers

The Best Meat Thermometers Under $50 (We List the Top 8 Choices)

The Best Thermometers for Smoking Meat

Best Wi-Fi Meat Thermometers (We Review the 5 Top Models)

Best Instant-Read Thermometers for Smoking (Top 6 Picks)

What Are Automatic Barbeque Temperature Controllers? The Complete Buyers Guide

MEATER Wireless Thermometer – Is It Any Good?

Damien

Author and founder at Meat Smoking HQ

Recent Posts